"We remain concerned about violence in eastern Ukraine. Our analysis continues to show, and as I have said before, it is the combined Russian-separatist forces, and not Ukrainian forces, who are initiating aggressive activities," he said.

"We commend the OSCE's ongoing efforts to facilitate Minsk implementation and condemn separatist attacks and pressure on the monitors, which we continue to see. We call on Russia and the separatists to end the violence and begin full implementation of the Minsk agreements, including ensuring safety and full access for OSCE monitors," Kirby said.

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